Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumResin; Wood
DimensionsBase: 8 3/8" (L) x 6 5/8" (W) x 1 3/8" (T). Head: outer edges of horns are 4 7/8" (W) and from nose to top of head is 4 1/2" (H) x 1" (D).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.3210
DescriptionA ram's head with pronounced curved horns. It is made of wood with a dark brown resinous coating over all surfaces (except one end is not coated (3/4" deep) where it sat in a notch for display. There are 3 carved Roman numerals on the back (XXII).Label TextThis antique composition mould represents a trade that was practiced in Virginia during the Revolutionary period and into the 19th century. It depicts a common design found in upper class homes and public buildings. Composition was a substitute for more laboriously produced ornamental plaster and carved wood and stone. It is thought that the Adam brothers (Robert Adam 1728-1792) and John Adam (1721-1792)) played a major role in the initial manufacture of composition ornament on a grand scale. The Adam style demanded a large amount of delicate low-relief ornament. These moulds are for the production of such ornament in plaster, or in composition, usually a combination of whiting, glue, rosin and oil. The finished ornament was used on furniture and other objects as well as in the decoration of rooms.
